Article Overview:
CBD is a cannabinoid derived from the cannabis plant, but it doesn’t contain the components of that make you high. Since it doesn’t include THC, CBD is often a safer and better-tolerated alternative. Some key points to keep in mind about CBD:
- CBD is known for its relaxing, sleep-promoting and mood-boosting effects.
- CBD has a low risk for abuse and addiction.
- However, you can become dependent on CBD if you rely on it to manage symptoms that should be treated by a medical professional.
- CBD regulations vary around the country, but hemp and CBD have recently been legalized in Ohio.
- Many of the health claims of CBD have not been researched, and should not replace evidence-based treatment for physical or mental health conditions.
Understanding CBD Treatment
Cannabidiol has become a popular remedy for symptoms ranging from anxiety to trouble sleeping. CBD is also an effective treatment for epilepsy and has been researched for many other health conditions.
CBD is relatively low risk and has been shown to be well tolerated in most cases. The drug does have some dangerous side effects, however; people who use CBD should be cautious about levels of THC as regulation on CBD products can vary widely.
CBD may be a helpful add-on strategy for several health conditions and has low abuse potential. Although you can get addicted or dependant on CBD by relying on the substance to manage symptoms, it is much less common than with other substances. Importantly, CBD should not replace appropriate medical or psychiatric care for a mental health or substance use disorder.
What is Cannabidiol?
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a naturally occurring substance derived from the cannabis plant. CBD does not contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is found in marijuana and produces a ‘high’ feeling.
CBD is now common in natural or alternative remedies for its relaxing effects. Other health claims of CBD include managing pain, helping with sleep and improving mood. Research on these benefits is ongoing.
CBD is sold and consumed in many forms, including CBD oils, edibles or lotions. While these products offer potential benefits, they are often not supported by research.
Differences Between THC and CDB
There are important differences between THC and CBD in their risks, side effects and addictive properties. THC is found in marijuana and produces a ‘high’, as well as altered senses, changes in memory and difficulty thinking or solving problems. On the other hand, CBD does not produce these psychoactive effects and is generally safe for use and is not detectable on a drug test (give that the product meets the very low THC requirements).
THC also has a higher risk of abuse and addiction than CBD. Marijuana – a THC containing type of cannabis – is a controlled substance that is subject to tight regulations, even for medical use. The risk of addiction is much higher for people using THC compared to CBD.
CBD Laws in Ohio
In 2018, Congress passed the Agricultural Improvement Act , also known as ‘The Farm Bill’, which made hemp (that contains less than 0.3% TCH) legal. This law requires that the production and sale of hemp/CBD must follow strict regulations, but allows for the sale of CBD products to the public.
Although approved at a federal level, CBD has not been legalized in all 50 states. Some states have been slower to update their laws to reflect the federal regulations. For example, CBD laws in Ohio have only recently changed. The bill to decriminalize hemp and CBD was passed in July 2019, allowing farmers to grow cannabis and permitting the sale of CBD products in the state of Ohio. However, these regulations have not been passed in all states. The National Conference of State Legislatures provides up-to-date information on state-level CBD/hemp regulations.
The CBD Industry
The CBD industry has grown rapidly in the years snce the federal legalization of CBD. CBD products are now sold in many forms ranging from oils to lotions and is advertised for its many health benefits and low risk of side effects.
CBD market trends show that CBD is being used as a pain management strategy, a method to manage or improve mood or even as a skin and beauty treatment. In general, CBD is marketed as a safe and natural alternative to common medications and is celebrated for its wide range of health and wellness benefits.
However, experts caution against over-selling the benefits of CBD as many products and health benefits have little research to support them. While CBD may be a beneficial addition to self-care, it should not be relied upon for health conditions that require medical attention.
Using CBD can be part of an overall healthy self-care regime, but can be problematic if it is used to manage more serious health problems. If you or someone you love is struggling with a substance use disorder, contact The Recovery Village Columbus to discuss treatment options today.
World Health Organization. “Cannabidiol (CBD) Pre-Review Report Agenda Item 5.2.” Expert Committee on Drug Dependence Thirty-ninth Meeting Geneva, 6-10 November 2017. Accessed August 14, 2019.
National Institute on Drug Abuse. “What is Marijuana?” July 2019. Accessed August 17, 2019.
Congress.gov. “Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018.” December 20, 2018. Accessed August 16, 2019.
Welty, Timothy E et al. “Cannabidiol: promise and pitfalls.” Epilepsy currents, October 2014. Accessed August 16, 2019.
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